Vascular plants census linked to the biodeterioration process of the Portuguese city of Mazagan in El Jadida, Morocco

A comprehensive census of vascular plants in the Portuguese City of Mazagan (El Jadida, Morocco) reveals 57 species linked to significant biodeterioration of historical structures. The study identifies therophytes and hemicryptophytes as dominant types, accounting for 79% of the flora, with their rooting patterns posing a substantial threat to substrate integrity. While spontaneous plants constitute 81%, invasive naturalized species like Lycium europaeum exacerbate structural damage, necessitating urgent conservation measures. The research employed systematic sampling and botanical identification to assess vegetation impacts on monument degradation, highlighting the critical role of plant colonization in historical preservation challenges.

Dahmani, J., Benharbit, M., Fassar, M., Hajila, R., Zidane, L., Magri, N., & Belahbib, N. (2020). Vascular plants census linked to the biodeterioration process of the Portuguese city of Mazagan in El Jadida, Morocco. Journal of King Saud University - Science, 32(1), 682–689. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jksus.2018.10.015